Air Cadets complete map and compass march in the dark

5 and 10 person arctic bell-tents provided much needed shelter for cadets over the cold and rainy weekend

Danny VandenBroek photos

• Bottle drive scheduled for Saturday October 4

859 Crowsnest Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron

Cadets from 859 Crowsnest Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron practiced their survival and navigations skills the weekend of September 26 - 28. Training included topics such as survival psychology, improvised shelters, radio procedures, ground-to-air signals, and navigating with a map, compass, and GPS. 

Team “Raven” prepares for their night march (Left to Right: Cdt Clarke, Cpl Gray, FCpl Gustavson, FCpl Clarke)

Seeking relatives of Lachlan (Bud) Fredrick Fraser

Hi, my name is Elizabeth Lees, and I need some help passing this message along in Alberta.. I am looking for relatives that are related to LACHLAN (BUD) FREDRICK FRASER, March 25, 1921 - November 1, 1998, who passed away in Pincher Creek AB. He joined the Canadian Artillery in Canada House, London, England. He was married in 1945 to Florence May Coombes in Headley, England. They returned to Canada in 1946. 

Bud played darts at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 43 in Pincher Creek, Alberta. He is survived by his two daughters, Shirley Sinclair of Lethbridge, Alberta and Marie (Ken) Bush of Madrid, Spain, and a sister Isabel (Fraser) Moat of England. He has five grandchildren, William, Vanessa, Alisa, Tracy and Lorrie; two greatgrandchildren, Eric and Arianne; five step-children, twelve step-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Senior Huskies ask for reduction in practice time ice costs

Toni Lucas

updated October 1, 2014

Pincher Creek Senior Huskies Manager Jeff Kaupp appeared before  Pincher Creek's Town Council as a delegation during their regular meeting on Monday evening September 29 to request reduced practice time ice costs and to explain more about the team. He informed council that "The league is expanding by two teams this year, so we will have six teams this year."* The teams being added to the league this season: Siksika and Kainai. Kaupp said that the Huskies plan on hosting 10 home games during the season.

*Note, on the Senior Huskies website, posted September 30, it is stated that "The League remains at 4 teams for the 2014-15 season. The Lomond Lakers are taking a year absence from the league with hopes of returning next year. The Kainai Braves are returning with a strong leadership team and the Siksika team applying this year did not attend the meeting."

Two vehicle collision on Highway 22 sends three to hospital

Toni Lucas

A pick up truck and a van collided on Highway 22 today on Tuesday, September 30. The accident occurred at approximately 2:00 pm roughly three miles north of the Highway 3,Highway 22 junction. Pincher Creek Emergency Services Chief Dave Cox reported that three people were sent to hospital from the two vehicles, although there were no apparent serious injuries. There was hail in the area at the time, and Cox said that the weather may have been a factor.

Pincher Creek Rescue, two Pincher Creek ambulances and Crowsnest Pass  RCMP responded to the  scene.  CNP Fire was returning to station on a transfer via Highway 22 and stopped to assist. Chief  Cox reported that they did not have to shut down the highway, but traffic was directed through the area until the scene was cleared.

High Country Western Wear Fashion Show

(advertorial)

Taylor Wells, Janet Taylor, Jessandra Letourneau
T. Lucas photos

High Country Western Wear held their Grand Opening and Fashion Show during the Ranchland Harvest Festival on Saturday, September 27. The store  recently moved to the Ranchland Mall and re-opened for business on August 15, 2014. A dozen people modeled an appreciative crowd the range of fashion that the store has to offer.

Raiden Trodden Lily Schmidt

The fashion model volunteers ran the gamut from men, women, and children, including four young ladies from the Pincher Creek Rodeo Grand Entry. Jeans, hats, boots, and cowboy shirts were featured in the show, but it also showed that there were dresses, and casual wear. The selection was wide, and the crowd enjoyed the spectacle.

Jim Litkowski, Raiden Trodden, Lilyen Schmidt, Shinaya Gamache

Thank you to the models:

Taylor Wells

Janet Taylor

Kassi Wells

Megan McGlynn

Jessie Letourneau

Dykota Letourneau

Shinaya Gamache

Jordan Goulding

Jim Litkowski

Junior Courchesne

Raiden Trodden

Lilyen Schmidt

Announcer: Karen Gamache

St. Michael's teacher Dominique Plouffe-Chandler wins national award

Dominique Plouffe-Chandler
T. Lucas photo

Toni Lucas

*Updated October 2, 2014 with press release from Holy Spirit Catholic Schoolboard press release

Recently St. Michael's teacher Dominique Plouffe-Chandler was awarded for her work with the French Immersion programming at St. Michael's School.  The Prix d'Excellence André Obadia is a national award.

Policing in Alberta to September 30, 2014

Missing Red Deer teen FOUND
Balzac theft suspects sought
Airdrie theft suspects sought
Motorcyclist fatality in Calgary
Single vehicle fatality near Fort McMurray
Armed robbery in Red Deer
Multiple charges laid against Okotoks man
Spruce Grove armed robber arrested
Airdrie youth struck by vehicle in crosswalk
Grande Prairie RCMP weekend summary
Arson to vehicle in Brooks
Pellet gun mistaken for shotgun in Grande Prairie
Hit and Run near Calgary
Man charged in Fox Creek firearm incident
Stolen Strathmore area vehicles recovered
Red Deer RCMP investigate sudden death

Missing Red Deer teen FOUND

Balzac theft suspects sought

Airdrie RCMP are seeking assistance from the public to identify a two suspects in a theft from Costco.

On July 25, 2014 a male and a female entered the Balzac Costco. After shopping, at the checkout, the couple had difficulty paying. When requested by staff to wait while a manager was called, the male and the female exited the store with their cart filled with merchandise, bypassing the staff member at the door who asked to see their receipt.

Airdrie Rural RCMP was contacted, and investigation to identify ensued. Calgary Police were also contacted in connection with similar thefts possibly involving these suspects.

Theft suspect

Theft suspect

Video surveillance was collected, and suspects are described as follows:

Caucasian male,

• early 30’s,
• 5’10
• skinny build,
• short dark hair,
• wearing a black ball cap and white track suit

Caucasian female,

• early 30’s
• 5’3
• average build
• pink hair
• glasses
• wearing a grey shirt with a black sweater, blue jeans and red shoes.

If you have information, please call the Airdrie RCMP at 403-945-7267. If you want to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or by internet at www.tipsubmit.com. You do not have to reveal your identity to Crime Stoppers, and if you provide information to Crime Stoppers that leads to an arrest(s), you may be eligible for a cash reward.

Airdrie theft suspects sought

Airdrie RCMP are seeking assistance from the public to identify a two suspects in a theft from the Bench clothing store in Cross Iron Mills.

On September 19th, 2014 at approximately 8:00 pm, two males entered the Bench Store in Cross Iron Mills. The males surveyed the store and when not in view of staff, selected a number of clothing items, placed them underneath the clothing they were wearing and departed the store without paying.

A staff member noticed the thefts a short time later and contacted RCMP. Video surveillance was reviewed.

Theft suspect

One male is described as:

• Male
• 30’s,
• Heavy build,
• Close cropped dark hair,
• Wearing a white t-shirt and necklace

There is no description of the second male.

If you have information, please call the Airdrie RCMP at 403-945-7267. If you want to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or by internet at www.tipsubmit.com. You do not have to reveal your identity to Crime Stoppers, and if you provide information to Crime Stoppers that leads to an arrest(s), you may be eligible for a cash reward.

Motorcyclist fatality in Calgary

The Calgary Police Service is investigating a fatal motorcycle collision that took place this morning, Monday, Sept. 29, 2014.

At approximately 11:30 a.m., a 55-year-old man was operating a 2000 Harley Davidson motorcycle northbound on 4 Street N.W., when a woman in a 2011 Honda Civic traveling south on the same street, turned left onto the path of the motorcycle.

The motorcyclist applied his brakes, locking the front wheel, causing the motorcycle to drop. Both the motorcycle and man struck the Honda Civic.

The man received fatal head injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene. The woman was not injured.

Alcohol or speed are not considered to be factors in the collision.

Anyone who may have witnessed the collision is asked to contact the Traffic Section at 403-567-4000.

Single vehicle fatality near Fort McMurray

Wood Buffalo RCMP

On Monday September 29th , at 4:29am, Wood Buffalo RCMP responded to a single vehicle crash approximately 27 kilometers north of Fort McMurray on Highway 63 near the Borealis Camp that claimed the life of a 52 year old man.

The man was the lone occupant of a sports utility vehicle that had been traveling north on Highway 63 when it left the road, went into the ditch and rolled several times. The man was not wearing a seatbelt and was still in the vehicle when RCMP arrived on scene. Police continue to work on a cause for this crash, but can say alcohol and or drugs are not suspected to be a contributing factor.

Sections of Highway 63, in the vicinity of the crash, were limited to one lane but have since been reopened.

Wood Buffalo RCMP will not be releasing any further details on the deceased man out of respect for the family as notification continues. Police continue to investigate this unfortunate occurrence.

Armed robbery in Red Deer

Red Deer RCMP are investigating an armed robbery that occurred at approximately 7:00 am on Sunday, September 28 in the area of 39 Avenue and 44 Street. A Red Deer man was walking to work when he was stopped by three men, all of whom carried knives. One man threatened the victim with a knife before punching him once. The three suspects took his backpack, cell phone and wallet and ran from the area on foot, heading eastbound on 44 Street. Police searches of the area did not locate the suspects, and the victim did not sustain any injuries from the assault.

The suspects were all wearing black pants, black winter jackets and balaclavas, and were between 5’4” and 5’8” tall, with skinny builds. All three were described as being between the approximate ages of 16 and 19 years old.

Anyone with information that may assist the police in identifying the suspects responsible for this crime is asked to call Red Deer RCMP at 403.343.5575. If you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1.800.222.8477 or report it online at www.tipsubmit.com

Multiple charges laid against Okotoks man     

Okotoks RCMP

                                                                                                                                     

On September 26 at approximately 11:34 P.M Okotoks RCMP received a call of a disturbance at a residence. A male was arrested and taken into custody for numerous criminal code charges.

The investigation revealed that the male was involved in recent B & E/ Thefts, at Classic Source for Sports (x 2), The Boot Hill Gallery and Urban Optique.

17 criminal code charges stemming from these recent events are as follows:  aggravated assault, forcible confinement, assault with a weapon, possess weapon dangerous to public peace, uttering threats, break and enter-theft x 4 and fail to comply with undertaking x 9.

The 42 year old male was been remanded into custody pending a bail hearing on Monday September 29th, 2014 in Calgary, Alberta.

The matter is still under investigation and further charges are pending.

Spruce Grove armed robber arrested

Spruce Grove/Stony Plain RCMP have laid charges following two brazen robberies in as many days.

On Thursday, September 25, a man with a knife robbed "Jack's Drive In", just as the business was preparing to close for the evening.

The following day, September 26th, a man with a knife entered a "Petro Canada" convenience store in Spruce Grove just after noon, demanding money.

Extensive patrols of the area and diligent police work allowed RCMP to arrest a suspect within 30 minutes of the Petro Canada robbery.

39 year old Darryl Jack Walker of Spruce Grove is charged with two counts of robbery with a weapon. He did not speak to bail, and has been remanded into custody until his October 1st court appearance in Stony Plain Provincial Court.

He has a related criminal record.

Airdrie youth struck by vehicle in crosswalk

Airdrie RCMP

On September 26, 2014 at 8:05 am, on Meadowbrook Drive near Mayfair Close, a 12 year old female was crossing the road at a marked crosswalk. The child was struck by a vehicle and knocked down.

Airdrie RCMP and Alberta Provincial Emergency Medical Services were dispatched. The female youth received minor scrapes and bruises, was evaluated as a precaution, and released to her mother.

The driver of the vehicle was charged with Failing to Allow a Pedestrian to Use a Crosswalk Safely.

Airdrie RCMP would like to remind drivers to use caution at all times, and be especially cautious in residential and school zones.

Grande Prairie RCMP weekend summary

Between 4:00 p.m. Friday, September 26, 2014 and 7:00 a.m. today, Monday, September 29, 2014, the Grande Prairie RCMP received 270 reports and/or calls for service, which included:

• 20 911 calls
• 5 Abandoned Vehicles
• 4 Animal complaints
• 14 Assaults
• 12 Breach of or Fail to comply with conditions
• 1 Break and Enter
• 7 Controlled Drugs and Substances Act Complaints
• 16 Disturb the Peace
• 13 Other Moving Traffic Complaints
• 6 Other Non-Moving Traffic Complaints
• 5 Fail to Remain at Scene of Accident
• 15 False Alarms
• 2 Frauds
• 21 Impaired Drivers
• 3 Items Lost or Found
• 1 Gaming and Liquor Act Complaints
• 29 Mischief complaints
• 3 Municipal Bylaw complaints
• 10 Theft of Motor Vehicle complaints
• 13 Theft related complaints
• 9 Suspicious person, vehicle, or property
• 16 Traffic Collisions
• 21 Other (Criminal Code/Provincial Act/Municipal Bylaw)
• 15 Assist (General Public, Other Agencies, Other Police)
• 1 Trespass Act complaints
• 8 Utter Threats complaints

Arson to vehicle in Brooks

Brooks RCMP are requesting the assistance of the public to help solve a vehicle fire that had occurred on Spruce Avenue in Sunnylea, outside of Brooks, Alberta.

Sometime between Sunday, September 21st and the morning of Friday, September 25th, 2014 an unknown amount of persons entered an unlocked GMC Sierra located along the Sunnylea train tracks. While inside the vehicle, the unknown persons set fire to the interior of the vehicle before fleeing.

Pellet gun mistaken for shotgun in Grande Prairie

Grande Prairie RCMP

At approximately 7:55 pm on Sunday September 28, 2014, RCMP responded to a call involving a firearm in the area of 105th Street and 72nd Avenue in Grande Prairie.

Police attended the area and set up containment due to the risk of having a suspect armed with a long barrel firearm. The suspect was located and was apprehended without incident.

The investigation revealed that the suspect had a camouflaged pellet gun that resembled a pump action shotgun. He was released without charges and no charges are pending.

Police would like to thank the person/s who called the incident in as this helps to keep our community and neighbourhoods safe.

Hit and Run near Calgary

Strathmore RCMP

On September 24, 2014 at approximately 11:30 pm., Strathmore and Chestermere RCMP and Emergency Medical Services attended to a 57 year old man located unconscious with severe injuries near the shoulder of the road on eastbound Highway 1 near the Paradise Road turnoff, approximately 5 kilometers east of Calgary City Limits.

The man is being treated at hospital and is in critical but stable condition. It is believed this man commonly walked in this area. The man was wearing dark clothing and was found with luggage at the scene. The man's name is being withheld pending notification of family.

Anyone with information that could assist in this investigation, or was in the area on the evening of September 24, 2014 and saw this male walking on the side of the Highway, is asked to contact Strathmore RCMP at 403-934-3968.

Man charged in Fox Creek firearm incident

Fox Creek RCMP

A 37 year old man is facing 5 charges as a result of a firearm being discharged from a vehicle in Fox Creek on Saturday September 27, 2014.

The charges are: Unsafe Storage of Firearms, Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm, Possession of a Firearm in a Motor Vehicle, Possession of a Restricted Firearm with Ammunition without a Licence/Registration and Child Endangerment.

The man charged will make his first court appearance on Monday November 24, 2014 in Fox Creek Provincial Court at 10:00 am.

Police are not releasing any further detail regarding this event and the male charged, as doing so could risk disclosing the children's identities.

Background: On Saturday, September 27 a vehicle was parked in the cul-de-sac of 8A Avenue in Fox Creek, Alberta. The two parents left three children ages 1 to 6 years old in the vehicle to go into a house. While gone, the eldest child fired a rifle that was sitting in the passenger seat, discharging it out of the driver's side. No one was injured and the RCMP made an arrest.

Stolen Strathmore area vehicles recovered

Okotoks RCMP

On September 26 Okotoks RCMP recovered three GMC Sierra Pickup trucks that had been stolen from the Strathmore area.

The trucks were located via GPS tracking devices in the 300 block of Sheep River Place, Okotoks. Two of the trucks were on the street/alley, the third was parked in a driveway. Okotoks RCMP secured a warrant to take this truck and during the subsequent search, a fourth stolen vehicle was located on the property as well. This one is a Jeep Patriot that was stolen out of Calgary.

No one has been charged yet with regards to these vehicles and the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information about these crimes or any others should contact the Okotoks RCMP or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Red Deer RCMP investigate sudden death

At approximately 7:30 am on September 29, Red Deer RCMP responded to a report of an unconscious and apparently deceased male in a vehicle in the area of 51 Avenue and 34 Street in Red Deer, Alberta. On arrival, RCMP and EMS confirmed that the male was deceased. Several emergency vehicles were on the scene for several hours in order to contain the scene and remove the deceased male from the vehicle.

At this time, RCMP do not believe this death to be suspicious, but an autopsy will be scheduled in Calgary to confirm cause of death. RCMP are not releasing the man’s name pending notification of next of kin.

Dustin Flundra rides the tide to Las Vegas

Dustin Flundra's winning bronc ride at 2014 Pincher Creek Pro Rodeo
Jenaya Launstein file photo

Canadian Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA) press release

With the inaugural Grass Roots Finals a week away and the possibility of significant changes to the Canadian standings still out there, the focus for the final weekend of the regular rodeo season was on the Wrangler National Finals races.

And when the smoke had settled and the dust cleared, unofficial final standings indicated that three Canadian cowboys had punched their tickets to Las Vegas. No NFR race was more dramatic than in the Saddle Bronc Riding where it came down to the last ride of the season before Pincher Creek’s Dustin Flundra nailed down the 15th and final spot on the NFR roster.

Westwinds Boys Volleyball - Sabres host Flyers

JV Sabres vs Flyers

Chris Davis

Livingstone School's Boys Sabres hosted Fort Macleod's F.P. Walshe Flyers for JV and SV volleyball on Monday evening September 30.  The JV (Junior Varsity) sets were more competitive than the SV (Senior Varsity) sets due to the absence of senior players on the Sabres bench.  The Sabres also played all six sets of the evening with only one sub, compared to a combined Flyers bench of approximately 15 athletes.  

The Sabres won all three JV sets, and the Flyers won all three SV sets by definitive margins. Good fundamentals on both sides of the net.  The second to last volley in the final JV set was a highlight of the evening (see short video below), almost a minute and a half long and dynamic throughout, particularly when the quick footwork of Sabre Ross Cook kept it alive about halfway through.  The volley eventually went to the Flyers, but both teams deserve credit for a fun display of athleticism.

A great volley

Considerations when planning changes to a cow herd

Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development

When it comes to deciding on expanding a cow herd, or taking over an existing one, there are a few critical checkpoints to be considered.

“In recent months there has been a lot of talk about the potential for beef herd expansion due to the historically high beef and cattle prices the industry is experiencing,” says Bruce Viney, business development – risk, Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development, Olds. “Experts from all facets of the industry have been writing and talking about the opportunities and limiting factors to start the next expansion phase of the cattle cycle.”

Chief Mountain port of entry seasonal closure Sept. 30

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) reminds travellers that the Chief Mountain port of entry will close for the season at 6 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time on Tuesday, September 30, 2014.

About 60,000 travellers entered Canada at Chief Mountain this season and approximately 80% of those travellers were tourists.

Chief Mountain will reopen on Friday, May 15, 2015. Until then, travellers are advised to enter Canada using the nearest border crossing at Carway, Alberta.

Piikani Nation to hold referendum to decide on possible arena, changes to Council

The Piikani Nation Council has called a referendum of the membership to be held on October 6 and 7 between the hours of 9:00 am and 6:00 pm.

The referendum will ask if Piikani Nation Members approve the construction of a hockey arena/multipurpose building at a cost of $2 million,  whether the council should be reduced to one Chief and 8 councillors (currently council is one Chief and 12 councillors), and whether the term of the council should be reduced to three years from the current four years.

Source: piikanination.com

Policing in Alberta to September 29, 2014

Missing Calgary man Justin McKinnon-Blomme
Violent assault in Medicine Hat

Alberta honours fallen police and peace officers

2 men arrested after gun incident in St. Albert
6 yr old discharges rifle in Fox Creek

Missing Calgary man Justin McKinnon-Blomme

Missing: Justin McKinnon-Blomme

The Calgary Police Service is seeking public assistance to locate a missing man.

Justin McKinnon-Blomme, 21, was last seen on September 24, 2014, at Southland Drive junction with Fairmount Drive, Southeast, close to the Mac store. S.W. Justin has not been seen or heard from since. His family believes this is out of character and are concerned for his welfare.

Justin is described as being Caucasion, approximately 5’ 10” tall, 140 lbs slim build. He was wearing a black leather jacket and dark jeans when he was last seen.

Anyone with information about Justin’s whereabouts are asked to call police at 403-266-1234 or Crime Stoppers anonymously using any of the following methods:
TALK: 1-800-222-8477
TYPE: tttTIPS.com
TEXT: tttTIPS to 274637

Violent assault in Medicine Hat

Medicine Hat Police Service

On September 28, 2014, at approximately 4:13am, police 911 received a call regarding a violent assault that occurred in the 800 block of 3rd St SE, Medicine Hat. Police located two victims at the residence and the third was located a short distance away. All three have been transported to the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital for treatment of their injuries. At this time the extent of their injuries is undetermined, but one person is being flown to Calgary for treatment. 

The Medicine Hat Police Service is currently looking for:

Jacob Lucien SHEVCHENKO:

• Born June 2, 1988
• 6’-6’2”, 120lbs
• short spiky hair
• native looking facial features

Shevchenko is possible operating a Red, 2001 Ford F150, extended cab truck with an Alberta license, BGD-2005.

Police are asking members of the public to be on the lookout for this suspect and/or vehicle. Please do not approach as the suspect may be armed and dangerous. Police will not be releasing the type of weapon used at this time.

A warrant for the arrest of the suspect is being sought.

Alberta honours fallen police and peace officers

Government of Alberta

Albertans and law enforcement officials paid their respects to police and peace officers who have died in the line of duty.

Family, friends and the public joined Lieutenant Governor Donald S. Ethell and Minister of Justice and Solicitor General Jonathan Denis as well as members of the provincial law enforcement community to remember the men and women who have died in service to our province.

“On behalf of all Albertans I want to express our deepest gratitude to the officers who gave their lives to ensure we can live in safe communities. These officers made the ultimate sacrifice and we are forever indebted to them.” - Jonathan Denis, Minister of Justice and Solicitor General

One name was added to Alberta’s Pillar of Strength monument this year: Canadian Pacific Railway Police Constable Robert George MacIntosh, who was shot and killed in the line of duty in Calgary in 1912 while attempting to stop a theft.

This day coincides with the national Police and Peace Officers’ Memorial Day, which is celebrated on the last Sunday of each September in provinces across Canada.

2 men arrested after gun incident in St. Albert

St. Albert RCMP

Thanks to a call from a quick thinking resident, St Albert RCMP have arrested two men and seized two firearms, along with several knives. At approximately 2:30 p.m., on September 27, 2014, St. Albert RCMP were alerted to look for a man dressed in camouflage carrying a rifle. The suspect was seen walking eastbound on Red Willow trail past the skateboard park and then towards the minor baseball diamonds. With the recency of the Moncton murders of RCMP officers, this incident was handled with extreme caution. Immediately 4 police cars scoured the area.

RCMP cars at Red Willow Trail behind Minor League Ball Diamonds

Another resident directed the RCMP to check the wooded area north of the ball diamonds as the man had noticed some suspicious activity there.

"Fort" found in the woods near the ball diamonds. This was the site of the arrests. 

RCMP officers located a "fort" in the woods and found two adult suspects there. Besides the 4 knives and the 2 firearms, some drug paraphernalia was found. The firearms that were seized have been found to be very realistic looking rifles, but one is a pellet gun and the other is an airsoft rifle.

Some of the weapons seized during the arrest
photos courtesy RCMP

The two men, one age 18 and the other, age 20, both residents of St. Albert, have been arrested for possession of weapons dangerous to the public and charges are pending. The arrests were made without incident and without disrupting the youth ball games. The minor league ball diamonds were busy with games between 11 to 14 year old players, watched by their fans. The skateboard park was also busy with youth while this incident happened. No one was hurt in this matter.

This investigation is in its very initial stages. The names of the arrested individuals will not be released at this time as charges have not been sworn.

6 yr old discharges rifle in Fox Creek

The Fox Creek RCMP are advising the public of an event that occurred on the afternoon of Saturday, September 27.

A vehicle was parked in the cul-de-sac of 8A Avenue in Fox Creek, Alberta. The two parents left three children ages 1 to 6 years old in the vehicle to go into a house. While gone, the eldest child fired a rifle that was sitting in the passenger seat, discharging it out of the driver's side. No one was injured and the RCMP have made an arrest. The names of people involved are not being released as youth are involved.

2014 Ranchland Mall Harvest Festival a fun packed event

Dunk tank with MD Councillor Fred Schoening and Town Councillor Wayne Alexander

T. Lucas and C. Davis photos and videos

Chris Davis

Pincher Creek's Ranchland Mall held their second annual Harvest Festival on Saturday, September 27.  The mall was packed with people enjoying the many events, vendors, and activities.

Communities in Bloom hosts NWMP Tree Dedication at Library grounds

Farley Wuth, Wendy Ryan, John Hancock, Diane Burt-Stuckey, Rosaleen Berger, Cst. Whittington
in the shade of a mighty elm
C. Davis photos

Chris Davis

A tree dedication ceremony hosted by Communities In Bloom was held on Wednesday afternoon September 24, National Tree Day,  in front of the Pincher Creek and District Municipal Library on Main Street.  There, a stand of impressive elm trees was dedicated to the Northwest Mounted Police (NWMP), who helped found Pincher Creek.

Rocket to the moon

Another tale of loss and affirmation

Phil Burpee

     Let me tell you about this man I know who's building a rocket to the Moon. He's not a physicist or a scientist or any goofy, grinning, billionaire Richard Branson type. He's a cattle producer and barley farmer about an hour and a half's drive outside of Medicine Hat, along a big bend of the Red Deer River. There's nothing much to suggest his place is anything like Cape Canaveral - just a slightly worn old house behind a green ash shelter belt, an old barn, several outbuildings and sheds, some corrals, some farming machinery of varying vintages, and a good size quonset with about a forty-year old Caterpillar bulldozer parked out front. His name is Henry Lafreniere, and he came out of Saskatchewan with his parents in 1953 when he was six years old. He stayed on the place when they died with his wife Ruth.

Out and about - Summer turns into fall

Great horned owl along creek viewed during Canyon School Terry Fox Walk - Cody Johnson photo.  Click here for more pictures from area schools' Terry Fox runs.

^ ACOPA AGM participants seen from remote helicopter used to reconstruct accident scenes - Cpl Barry Red Iron photo.  Click here for the full story.

Working the land at sunset
C. Davis

St. Michael's School celebrates 110th anniversary and Feast of St. Michael

Dynasty the Dragon with Sebastian Parker, Josh Grujic, and Alex Lindfors
while Sister St. Marie (Mrs. Jennifer Parker) looks on
T. Lucas photos

Toni Lucas

St. Michael's School in Pincher Creek held their 110th anniversary in conjunction with the annual Feast of St. Michael on Saturday, September 27.  The Knights of Columbus put out a lovely feast that included beef on a bun, salads, and had ice cream and cupcakes for dessert.

Fall-applied fertilizers

Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development

With fall harvest upon us, there is an opportunity for producers to begin to plan for next year’s crop.

Mark Cutts, crop specialist at Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development (ARD), said that one aspect of crop production that can be considered is the fall application of fertilizers. “The advantages of applying fertilizer in the fall include reducing the spring workload as well as taking advantage of the lower prices of fertilizer products in the fall as compared to in the spring.”

Updated: Organic Traditions brand Sprouted Chia and Flax Seed Powder recalled due to Salmonella

September 27, 2014 

A food recall warning issued on September 11, 2014 has been updated to include additional product information. This additional information was identified during the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA) food safety investigation.

One of the affected products

Bantam Mustangs host Claresholm Raiders

Bantam Mustangs vs Raiders
Kim Jorgenson photo

Toni Lucas

Pincher Creek Bantam Mustangs hosted the Claresholm Raiders on Saturday, September 27 on the football field behind Matthew Halton High School.  At the half, the score was 37-0 for the Raiders.  TJ Metcalfe pulled off a touchdown in the second half for the Mustangs, thereby avoiding a shutout. The final score was 57-6 Raiders.

Kim Jorgenson photos

Heritage Acres Fall Fair 2014 - a vignette

Taking the tour, in the hands of exceptional engineers
C. Davis photos

Chris Davis

The 2014 Heritage Acres Fall Fair was perhaps best appreciated with a hitch, the kind that attaches the new open air bus to the ancient tractor.

Coaldale Pride defeats Senior Mustangs

Mustangs line of scrimmage
Jenaya Launstein photo

Jenaya Launstein

Pincher Creek's Senior Mustangs hosted Coaldale's Pride at Matthew Halton field on Friday, September 26.

 

J. Launstein video

Policing in Alberta to September 27, 2014

Man wanted for Sylvan Lake armed robbery
MVC fatality near Leduc
MVC fatality in Tofield district
Armed robbery in High River
B&E charges for four in Medicine Hat
Calgary woman arrested for impaired causing death
Arrow damages parked vehicle in Fort Macleod
Balzac man injured by forklift
Duncan's First Nations man arrested on multiple charges
Armed robbery in Spruce Grove
CPS conducts commercial vehicle checkstops
Summer 2014 recap from CBSA southern Alberta

Upcoming federally funded Equine Welfare Training Program

Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development

Funding from a federal government program is going to the development of an industry-wide equine welfare training program.

Rotary Friendship Exchange Filipino visitors experience Pincher Creek and area

Dolorita 'Dolly' Lara, Scott Korbett,
Ma Lourdes'Cory' DV Navarro, and Nerly Yu
T. Lucas photos

Toni Lucas

Pincher Creek Rotary Club had a variety of special guests at their regular Thursday luncheon meeting on Thursday, September 25. Three visitors from the Rotary Friendship Exchange from the Philippines came to Pincher Creek and area to share more about the Philippines, and to find out about Canada. Some of the places that they have, or plan to visit include Toronto, Calgary, Pincher Creek, Drumheller, Lethbridge and Vancouver.   Much of their trip is planned for vacationing, networking and learning, and the exchange of ideas.

Adult Learning Council offers fall courses

Toni Lucas

The Pincher Creek Adult Learning Council (PCALC) has started their programing at St. Michael's School and is providing a wide range of public interest courses. "We try to find out what people want to learn, and what they want to teach," explained Adult Learning and Literacy Coordinator Monica Sczryba-Davis. Many of the people giving courses for the fall sessions are locally based and according to Sczryba-Davis "They have a real passion in their areas, and are ecxited to teach it to others." Classes range from physical fitness, business, knitting, cooking, language, computer skills and many more skills.  Even if their is a course that you are interested in and the registration is past, letting the staff know is useful, for rescheduling purposes.

Warren Mickels elected Councillor for the Village of Cowley in byelection

Toni Lucas

The Village of Cowley (VoC) held a  byelection  Monday, September 22, 2014 for the position of Councillor that was vacated when Linda Findlater resigned her position as Mayor July 7, 2014.  The election results are as follows:

Warren Mickels 36

Mary Kittlaus 21

Doug Paton 16

Florence Williams 5

Warren Mickels is a new Councillor for the Village of Cowley.  According to Village of Cowley administration the council will announce who is Mayor of Cowley on October 8.

Highs and lows as Peewee Mustangs host Cardston Cougars

Coach Tom

Well sports fans it was a night of highs and lows for the Peewee mustangs on Thursday night. The Mustangs welcomed the Cardston Cougars to town and the Cougars proved to be quality fun competition. Both teams have issues with the number of players as each only had 14 players to start the game. What was missing in numbers was more than made up by the heart and good spirit of all the players involved.

Solutions and substitutions by Reena

Reena Nerbas

Reena Nerbas

Dear Reena,

I often see no-boil lasagna noodles on the shelf of my grocery store. What makes these noodles different than regular lasagna noodles? Which is better? - Glenn

Dear Glenn,

No-boil lasagna noodles are precooked noodles that don’t require pre-boiling. However, instead of purchasing precooked pasta, I purchase regular lasagna noodles that are high in fiber. I do not boil the noodles, but I make sure that enough sauce covers the noodles so that they bake in the oven along with the lasagna dish. Do not add cheese to top layer, cover tightly with foil and bake in oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for one and a half to two hours. When noodles are tender, remove foil and cover with cheese. Return to oven until cheese is melted. Let stand 10 mins. before serving.

Gayle Strikes With A Gun dismissal upheld, AB Court of Queens Bench to convene at Piikani Nation regarding PIC insolvency

Chris Davis

Federal Court upholds Gayle Strikes With A Gun's dismissal

The case of Gayle Strikes With A Gun versus Piikani Nation was heard at the Federal Court on April 2, 2014. A decision rendered by The Honourable Madam Justice McVeigh on September 23, 2014 dismissed Strikes With A Gun's appeal to be reinstated as Piikani Chief.

Charges of nepotism and other issues regarding her relationship with some Piikani Nation administration staff members were cited by council as the cause of the suspension and eventual dismissal of Strikes With A Gun from the office of Chief.

Alberta Court of Queens Bench to hear proposal to address insolvency of PIC

Piikani Investment Corporation (PIC) was formed to administer a portion of a $64.3 million Settlement Agreement held by Piikani Trust for Piikani water rights and land that were affected when the Oldman River Dam was built.  PIC is now insolvent.  The RCMP were called into investigate suggested improprieties in 2013.

On September 28, 2014 beginning at 2:00 pm the Court of Queens Bench of Alberta will be convening at the Piikani Nation Community Hall regarding the Piikani  Investment Corporation Proposal, which proposes solutions to PIC's insolvency that are said to be intended to avoid PIC's bankruptcy and the financial chaos that event could cause the Piikani community.

Policing in Alberta to September 26, 2014

Airdrie fraud suspects sought
Airdrie lottery ticket thief sought
Armed Robbery in Canmore
New Brunswick man's death a suspected homicide
Fraudulent money order scam on Faceboook
Update to Pedestrian seriously injured by vehicle fleeing RCMP
Arson at two schools in Red Deer
ATV rollover near Strathmore
Five years for Grande Prairie drug dealer
Nigerian letters scam continues to make the rounds
Two Calgary deaths deemed non-criminal
Edmonton hit and run spree

Alberta Stables Association formed

Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development

The Alberta Stables Association (ASA) has officially converted from a partner directed initiative, to a registered non-profit association for stables. The new association of stables reinforced their mandate with subsequent release of the, much anticipated, Standards of Operations manual for stables. This valuable manual was developed for all stable owners and operators alike.

Harvesting the knowledge of food security

Andrea Klassen

Andrea Klassen, Alberta Health Services

Harvest is here. With our busy lives we sometimes forget we live in the heart of an agriculturally rich community. But if we take a moment and look around, it isn’t hard to spot crops being harvested at every turn. Farmers are working hard to get crops off the fields and on to our plates. But not everyone is fortunate enough to have access to nutritious, fresh options when it comes to food choices.

Air Cadets recognize Police and Peace Officers' Memorial week and hold welcome back party

  Sergeant Lincez leads cadets and recruits on the march 

Photos courtesy Danny VandenBroek

859 Crowsnest Squadron Royal Canadian Air Cadets

The Military Police Air Cadets from 859 Squadron welcomed back their returning members and introduced themselves to potential recruits with a pizza night at the Coleman Legion on Monday night, September 22nd. A number of potential recruits from both Crowsnest Pass and Pincher Creek attended to learn more, and each left with an application package and the intent to register.

Go Johnny Go!

Chris Davis

Pincher Creek Peewee Mustangs #27 Johnny "Flash" Parker lived up to his nickname, scoring the team's first touchdown of the season during their home game against the Cardston Cougars earlier this evening, September 25. Parker's brand new to the sport, but already has a promising future. Parker plays 5 back, 4 back, left tackle, right tackle, and lineman.

Terry Fox celebrated by area students

Photos: Canyon/Livingston/Matthew Halton Schools - C. Davis, St. Michael's School - Lori Jo Ettenhofer

Area schools including St. Michael's, Matthew Halton, Canyon, and Livingstone held Terry Fox runs this week (and last week in the case of Livingstone School), celebrating the spirit of one of Canada's most inspirational athletes. 

"We decided as a school to do this, it's a great cause.  We are remembering those who have cancer, or have passed away from cancer.  This will help with research so less people will have to face this in the future." - St. Michael's School Principal Don.Kuchison

Canyon students begin their Terry Fox run